HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, Dec 2: A high-level coordination and review meeting between the Assam Government and the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) was held on Monday at the BTC Secretariat, Bodofa Nagar, Kokrajhar. The meeting aimed to review development initiatives, administrative functioning and ongoing projects in BTC.
Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, Cabinet Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah and Transport Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary represented the Assam Government. From the BTC side, Chief Hagrama Mohilary, Deputy Chief Rihan Daimary, the Assam Government Chief Secretary and senior officials from various departments participated.
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Addressing the media after the meeting, Finance Minister Ajanta Neog stated that the objective was to understand the support required for BTC’s functioning post-formation. She emphasised that both Central and State government schemes must be implemented fully to ensure balanced and equitable development in BTC. “Whether the schemes belong to the Centre or the State, they must be implemented 100%. That is our main objective,” she said.
Minister Neog added that Chief Hagrama Mohilary had raised several administrative issues, including land acquisition, employee recruitment, transfers and deployment of government officials. She assured that the Assam Government would extend full cooperation and financial support while also assisting BTC in developing its revenue-generating sources.
Cabinet Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah highlighted new major projects slated for BTC, including the Kokrajhar–Gelephu railway line, which is expected to have its construction inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January next year. He also mentioned plans for the upgradation of Rupsi Airport, a railway coach factory and solutions for land acquisition challenges related to the Army firing range.
Regarding the BTC Secretariat incident on 29 November, Minister Mallabaruah termed it unfortunate and stressed that such events disrupt peace, harmony and development. He clarified that the report on the ST status of six communities was submitted late in the evening and that reactions prior to reviewing the report were premature. He emphasised that discussions will be held to ensure that existing ST communities retain their rights while addressing demands of other communities.
BTC Chief Hagrama Mohilary said the review meeting covered the functioning of 39 departments, centrally implemented schemes and the development of infrastructure projects such as Rupsi Airport. He expressed confidence that BTC would be able to function as envisioned and announced plans for a follow-up meeting in Dispur after 15 days.
On the Secretariat incident, Hagrama Mohilary also questioned the role of ABSU and UPPL in the matter, stressing that unsolicited claims or interventions should not disrupt administrative processes. The meeting concluded with a commitment from both sides to work collaboratively for BTC’s holistic development and to resolve long-standing administrative and socio-economic issues effectively.
